Suffolk County Legislator Jim Mazzarella (R-3rd District) held an event to celebrate the 100th birthday of one his district’s treasured residents, Catherine “Kitty” Walsh.
“It was a privilege spending some time with Kitty and all her friends this morning at the Mastic Recreation Center. She is a real spitfire! God Bless her, said Mazzarella. “Longevity of life is a blessing for an individual and for a community, which benefits from the knowledge, warmth, and experience that such an individual brings to all.”
Kitty was born on June 16, 1925, to her mother Wilhelmina while traveling by boat from England to America—a remarkable beginning to a remarkable life.
A lot has happened in these last 100 years. A century ago, the Jazz Age was in full swing, Mount Rushmore was being constructed, and Hitler published his manifesto "Mein Kampf." Malcolm X, Johnny Carson and Margaret Thatcher were also born in 1925. Penicillin wouldn't be discovered for a three more years. World War 1 was over, but World War 2 was brewing to be followed by other wars and conflicts. Men were sent to the moon and so many other scientific discoveries.
Kitty spent her early years in New Jersey until the age of 18, before embarking on a vibrant and spirited career as a dancer, performing in lounges across New York City and Long Island. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Joe, at a nightclub in the Bellport/Patchogue area. They married in 1962 and shared a loving union until Joe’s passing in 2008. Together, they made their home in Mastic Beach, where Kitty continues to reside.
Kitty is known and admired for her fun-loving nature, flashy style, and ever-present smile. She is a caring, intelligent, and humorous friend, and her joy for life continues to inspire all who know her.
Mazzarella said, “Having deep respect and admiration for those whose lives have had a lasting and positive impact on others, I presented Catherine “Kitty” Walsh with a Proclamation to honor and celebrate her milestone. Happy 100th Birthday!”